Ingredients
4 tilapia fillets (4 ounces each, wild caught preferred)
1 tablespoon olive oil for rubbing
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
Β½ teaspoon garlic powder
Β½ teaspoon onion powder
β teaspoon celery seed
lemon wedges or chopped cherry tomatoes for serving
Instructions
1-First Step: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for 375Β°F to 450Β°F or 190Β°C to 230Β°C; this ensures the grates are hot enough to sear the fish without burning it.
2-Second Step: Bring the 4 tilapia fillets to room temperature for about 15 minutes; pat them dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture, which helps the seasoning stick and prevents steaming on the grill.
3-Third Step: Rub the fillets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle them with 1 teaspoon of salt plus a bit of fresh ground pepper; this creates a barrier that promotes even cooking and adds basic flavor.
4-Fourth Step: In a small bowl, mix together 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika, Β½ teaspoon of garlic powder, Β½ teaspoon of onion powder, and β teaspoon of celery seed; pat this mixture onto both sides of the fish for a flavorful coating.
5-Fifth Step: Place the tilapia fillets skin-side down over indirect heat on the grill; cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the fish releases easily from the grates, allowing a nice crust to form without sticking.
6-Sixth Step: Carefully flip the fillets using a wide spatula and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes; check that the internal temperature reaches 130Β°F to 140Β°F or 54Β°C to 60Β°C to ensure itβs tender and just cooked through.
7-Final Step: Remove the grilled tilapia from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes; serve it topped with lemon wedges or prepared cherry tomatoes for a fresh twist, making the most of its flaky texture.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
π₯ Use medium-high heat to sear the fish and create a crust for easier flipping.
π΄ Wait until the fish releases from the grates before flipping; do not oil the grates.
π
Handle fillets gently with a wide spatula to keep them intact.
π
For a cherry tomato topping, sautΓ© tomatoes with olive oil, drizzle with balsamic vinegar, and season for a flavorful complement.
π Choose responsibly farmed tilapia for sustainability.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Pescatarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
